This week’s idea for Sepia Saturday, inspired by Linda, the Paper Collector, is a photo of a man with an impressive ‘tache reading a book – in fact, he looks like he’s been interrupted and is possibly slightly grumpy.

The only photo I could find of a man with a ‘tache and a book is of my maternal Grandfather’s brother, Norman, sharing a very large book with his delightful Granddaughter, Rose, and both look far from grumpy.

I wonder what it was that made Rose laugh so much? Perhaps he stashed something funny inside the book. To me, this looks like a professional photo taken in a studio – Rose’s posh frock and the background make me think so. Norman died in 1995 aged 81, and I don’t remember ever meeting him – he had moved from Scotland to the south west of England. I don’t have any early photos of Norman, just older ones, when “the Porter brothers” had the time to get together for family reunions, after they had all retired. Subsequently our families have lost touch. More “living relative” research required – Rose probably is on Facebook :-)

Yes, as Kristin says it looks like more than “a book” – perhaps it was a photographer’s prop, or a musical box. I like to think that it is a family bible and one day I might have copies :-D Either way, it’s a lovely photo.

Oh this reminded me so much of watching my grandmother read books to my son on her lap the few years they got to have together before she passed. They had such a special relationship, and were best buddies. The expressions on the faces in the picture remind me of that unique relationship. You can tell they genuinely enjoy being with eachother. What a sweet picture. :) You’ve compelled me to go find that picture I have of them and add it to my page. Sweet memories!

If this is indeed a studio shot, it is of the better kind,
none of those silly and garishly colored prints.
Its sobriety enhances the moment displayed here,
good times shared by two who obviously don’t feel
the generational gap.
Thanx 4 sharing!! :)
HUGZ

This is such a beautiful picture. A lovely capture. Thank you for sharing this.
I must say that I cannot resist the temptation of asking you if I may use this picture for a brochure I am designing? It will so perfectly suit the mood.
Kindly reply to your earliest convenience. Thank you very much again.